Creating Livable Communities – 2011

Full Report

Overview

The livability of a community is greatly affected by the community’s transportation system. Transportation networks provide the framework for how a community lives and connects, as well as how the economy grows within the community. The Federal Highway Administration produced this report to offer strategies on how to effectively incorporate livability concepts and objectives in public transportation decisions in order to maximize the return in community benefits from each transportation investment.

Key Point

The report provides an in-depth discussion regarding the importance of efficient transportation networks in creating livable communities, the benefits of livable communities for the public, and strategies to achieve livable communities. As the older adult population continues to grow, livable communities will become increasingly important for economic prosperity and community quality of life. Transit strategies must be tailored to meet the specific needs of a community, depending on the community’s demographic profile and whether the community is located in a rural, urban, or suburban setting, among other things.

Other report highlights include:

Communities across the country are looking for ways to increase their livability through innovative transportation strategies such as complete streets, context sensitive approaches, and sustainable roadway design.
Engaging multiple partners in a community’s transportation planning process will encourage coordination between housing, economic development, and environmental organizations, as well as the general public.

Many states have adjusted their transportation and planning projects process to incorporate livability factors. For example, the Mid-American Regional Council (MARC) in Kansas City produced a long-range transportation plan through 2040 whose vision is to create a “socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable” livable community.

How to Use

The report offers a high-level of discussion pertaining to the concept of livable communities and the impact transportation systems have on achieving livability goals and objectives. Planners, community leaders, and local officials can use this plan to gain an understanding of what it takes to become a livable community and the benefits livable communities offer to the general public and a community’s economic well-being.